6 Ways I'm Prioritizing My Health This Summer
How I'm embracing intentional movement, limiting screens and alcohol, and prioritizing sleep for my long-term health.
I had four children in six years, dedicating over eight years to nurturing and growing my family. I will forever be grateful for my body’s ability to create and sustain life; it has been the privilege of my life. Now, as I approach 40 (I'm currently 37) and close the chapter on childbearing, I am embracing a new season of prioritizing my own health and longevity. This summer, I am kicking off essential habits that I hope to maintain for the rest of my life.
For the past eight years, I’ve operated in a fourth-trimester state of mind, which was completely intentional. With the demands of pregnancy, postpartum, and life with young children, my focus was on maintaining and restoring energy in a comforting and indulgent way as I poured from my cup to focus on my babies. Now, as my children are getting older, I’m excited to be in a new season where filling my cup can look a bit different. I’m focusing on intentional movement, building strength, increasing flexibility, nourishing my body from the inside out, and getting adequate rest (yes, I’m talking about sleep).
My goal is to use the summer months—a time when moving my body and getting outside is at its peak opportunity, and a more relaxed pace from the school year lends itself to supporting these priorities. I’ve identified six things I’m keeping front and center this summer as I prioritize my health, and I’d love to invite you to join me in any or all of these, or to consider what you may want to prioritize to nourish and nurture yourself. I believe little shifts can lead to long-term habits, and summer is a ripe opportunity for this transformation. And if you feel like summer is already slipping away, here’s an alternative perspective: yesterday was only the first official day of summer, and my school-aged children are barely on their fifth day of summer break. We have plenty of time to prioritize ourselves—now and always.